Friday, November 26, 2004

Many people ask: "So, do you celebrate Thanksgiving in New Zealand?" There are 2 answers to this question. The first usually involves a short history lesson in the form of questions to the enquirer about the origins of Thanksgiving. This is generally followed by a 500W light going on in the enquirer's head - "Oh, New Zealand isn't [part of] [a colony of] [a State of] the US (no that's Australia you're thinking of). Sometimes a map is needed and the observation that while I suppose it IS possible the Mayflower made a side trip it is nevertheless unlikely and not supported by much (actually "any" is a better word here) historical evidence.The second answer is yes. We do. Officially this house does anyway. Thanksgiving is a tradition I am very much in favour of. And yes, it is the (often absent) spiritual aspect that I find attractive. So this year (having spent the last 2 Thanksgivings in the US) we get to start our own tradition. We are having over 20 people - friends and family - over for Turkey and the works. People have really jumped on board and are enjoying the novelty of making things usually reserved for Happy Days re-runs like Pumpkin Pie, Green Bean Casserole, Pretzel Jello etc.This year I am giving thanks for many things. For an amazing wife and an active baby! For strengthened ties with my family and a wonderful extended family in the US. For good friends here and abroad. For my church community. For changed lives. For the way in which God can purpose a life, even mine.Happy Thanksgiving.Jonesboy